Impact of Total Shoulder Replacement for Golfers

Golf season is here! Golf is a widely popular sport in Canada with millions of individuals participating in the game. With an aging population and increased incidence of glenohumeral degenerative arthritis, the number of active golfers requiring total shoulder replacement (TSA) is on the rise.

Unfortunately, severe shoulder pathology that is resistant to treatments – such as physiotherapy and modified activities – may require this type of invasive intervention. Active patients are often worried about the impact the surgery may have on their ability to participate in sporting activities like golf

A recently published study from the Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Albany Medical Center, New York, found that outcomes for patients with TSA desiring a return to golf are positive, and possible benefits include improvement of pain and possible improvements in driving distance and handicap. That’s good news for aging golfers!